These latest shorts from Royal are about as lairy as things get, but they have a whole heap of features that make them great for regular riding. Unlike last season's shorts, these feature a new fit - still loose but they hang better off the hips with a closer waistband and overall fit - more akin to the Sombrio Rev Moto short.
Twin popper buttons featuring laser-etched Royal logos close the short securely, and twin waist adjusters take up the slack if you don't quite fill the shorts. Mixed fabrics of tougher cordura and thinner ventilated fabric ensure the shorts are tough where they need to be, and let in cooling air in all the right places. New for 2008 are two small zippered pockets - just big enough for a phone and some keys.
In use they are totally unrestrictive, and sit just below the knee - mating perfectly with knee pads and feel great. The low front and higher back don't bunch and feel very natural. This colourway is the choice of Steve Peat for 2008 so expect to see them everywhere. We're not sure how well they're going to wash up after a winter of clay abuse, but right now they do look fresh!